In loving memory of

Norman Gerald DeFauw
September 30, 1931 - February 6, 2021

Norman Gerald DeFauw, age 89, passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2021 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. He was born on September 30, 1931 in Detroit, Michigan to the late August and the late Marie (nee: Ameel) DeFauw. 

Norman was born and raised in Detroit. He graduated from Denby High School in 1949. After high school, he joined the Naval Reserves and then went on to receive his Bachelors of Business Administration from University of Detroit.  

After college graduation, Norm accepted a position at DTE where he spent the entirety of his career.  

Norm enjoyed watching the Detroit Tigers and playing handball. His favorite pastime was swimming. A long time resident of Grosse Pointe Farms, he enjoyed spending many a fine sunny day at the Pier Park.  He was an all-around family man and liked to spend time with his grandchildren.  

Norm was the loving husband of the late Judith DeFauw (2020). He will be missed dearly by his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen or Forgotten Harvest.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, February 14 from 12 pm - 4 pm at Chas. Verheyden, Inc, 16300 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230. A Funeral Mass will take place Monday, February 15 at 10 am at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church, 157 Lakeshore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms, 48236.  

Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, face masks are required at the funeral home and the church. Masks must cover the mouth and nose. Social distancing will be enforced. The funeral home will be a rotational visitation of 25 people at a time due to Governor mandates.

Tributes

Bob Zabick wrote on Feb 14, 2021:

"Norm was an avid handball player, and I knew him as a fellow handball player for many years. Norm also became my friend, and was a true gentleman, on and off the court. I will miss him, as will all the friends he made playing the sport he loved."

Susan & Ronald Sutton wrote on Feb 13, 2021:

"Chris & Judy, and each one of Norman?s Family, The quality of a father can be seen in the goals, dreams and aspirations he sets not only for himself, but for his family. Sometimes harsh and maybe a little distant, sometimes more nurturing than one could expect, a dad builds the image of a true man in his son?s or daughter?s eyes. He is the one you run to when your mother goes all nuts for not making your bed again, but he is also the one that will make your tremble like a soldier in front of his sergeant. A dad is often the entertaining figure in a family. Dads are the ones teaching us about sports, tricks and? pranks ? someone has to do this too. Your Dad did the Best he knew. Life is a challenging for each of us. Let the Love shine forever in your heart. May your Father Rest In Peace in the hands of God. lo"

Susan & Ronald Sutton wrote on Feb 13, 2021:

"Chris and Judy, the rest of the Norman?s Family, The quality of a father can be seen in the goals, dreams and aspirations he sets not only for himself, but for his family. Sometimes harsh and maybe a little distant, sometimes more nurturing than one could expect, a dad builds the image of a true man in his son?s or daughter?s eyes. He is the one you run to when your mother goes all nuts for not making your bed again, but he is also the one that will make your tremble like a soldier in front of his sergeant. A dad is often the entertaining figure in a family. Dads are the ones teaching us about sports, tricks and? pranks ? someone has to do this too. Your Dad did the Best he knew. Life is a challenging for each of us. Let the Love shine forever in your heart. May your Father Rest In Peace in the hands of God. "

Br Nick Blattner Ofm Capuchin wrote on Feb 12, 2021:

"On behalf of the Capuchin brothers I offer my deepest sympathies on the passing of Norman. It is truly humbling to receive memorial donations in honor of Norman's life. Please be assured of the brother's prayers for the entire DeFauw family during this great time of grief. May perpetual light shine upon Norman."